IB tutors, from PYP to the 45-point Diploma.

The IB is a continuum of four programmes for students aged 3–19: the Primary Years Programme (3–12), Middle Years Programme (11–16), Diploma Programme (16–19) and Career-related Programme (16–19). Schools authorised to teach them are “IB World Schools”. Apex tutors across the continuum, one-to-one and matched to your child’s exact programme.

Each of the six DP subjects is graded 7 (highest) to 1, giving up to 42 points, plus up to 3 “core” points from the combination of Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay — a maximum of 45. To be awarded the diploma a student needs at least 24 points and must meet the other conditions (including CAS).

In the Diploma, each student takes three or four subjects at Higher Level (240 recommended teaching hours each) and the rest at Standard Level (150 hours each). HL subjects go into greater depth; both are graded 1–7 against the same grade descriptors.

They are both rigorous but structured differently. The IB keeps breadth — six subjects plus the core (TOK, the Extended Essay and CAS) — while A Levels focus on typically three subjects in depth. Which suits your child depends on their strengths and university plans; Apex tutors both and can talk it through.

Yes. The IB Diploma is on the UK UCAS Tariff — Higher Level, Standard Level, TOK and the Extended Essay each earn points (CAS does not) — and UK universities commonly make offers in IB points, e.g. “36 including 6,6,6 at HL”. In the UAE, the Ministry of Education recognises the IB Diploma through a Grade-12 equivalency certificate needed for university entry.

The Diploma has two exam sessions a year, in May and November. A student can retake a subject in a later session to improve a grade, and the highest grade counts. The IB removed the old “three-session” limit in 2023, so there is no cap on the number of sessions.

Both are for students aged 16–19. The Diploma is the academic route — six subjects plus the core (Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and CAS), scored out of 45. The Career-related Programme combines at least two DP courses with a career-related study and the CP core: personal and professional skills, language and cultural studies, community engagement and the Reflective Project. Apex tutors both.